Showing posts with label Rohit Dhawan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rohit Dhawan. Show all posts
What is No. 1? There’s always going to be someone better than you-Varun Dhawan
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Madhureeta Mukherjee (BOMBAY TIMES; June 6, 2026)
Charming and full of energy, Varun Dhawan brings his infectious sense of humour to the latest episode of the Bombay Times Lounge driven by Jeep. But beyond the laughs, the actor — whose latest release, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by David Dhawan, hit theatres on Friday — reveals a more reflective side as he opens up about the dangers of chasing perceptions, the pressures of fame, and why staying true to yourself matters more than ever. A conversation that’s equal parts entertaining and insightful — much like Varun himself. Watch the full episode on the Bombay Times YouTube channel.
Your father, David Dhawan, created a certain grammar of mainstream Hindi entertainment in the 90s. But today’s audiences consume content, including comedy differently. When you are making a comedy like Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, how do you stay true to the heart and soul of those classic entertainers?
My dad always told us, ‘I never went in to make comedy films. Main entertainer bana raha tha. Main logon ko entertain karna chahta tha. Usme romance tha, emotion tha, drama bhi tha, thoda sa action bhi tha. Aur uss mein logon ko hasaa bhi raha tha. But unn emotions ke bagair, those films would not be what they were. People and maybe critics back then, labelled them as comedy, but actually they were wholesome entertainers’.
Recently, at the David Dhawan Film Festival, where they showcased Aankhen, so many of us sat together and watched the film on the big screen — it was still so entertaining and magical. The comedy is not forced, it’s not gaggy... ki yaar, yeh trend mein hai, bolenge toh yeh chalega. It’s very close to real things that happen around us. I believe comedy is basically about capturing the nuances of real life and maybe magnifying them a little bit.
You did Main Tera Hero (2014) after your debut Student Of The Year (2012). I believe during the initial years of your career, you were advised not to do a comedy & even told that it was a wrong choice.
Yes, I was told by a very popular director back then that, ‘I wanted to cast you in a film, but I feel the kind of cinema you’re doing, you can only do that. But you should not do such cinema.’
And here we are…
Yes!
Your father recently said that Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai could be his last film as a director. Knowing that, did the journey feel more emotional for you — not just as an actor, but as a son who has grown up watching him live and breathe cinema?
At one point, we thought that he wouldn’t direct a film again because his health was down. So, Rohit (brother), my mom and I, felt he should not direct a film. He was going through a very low phase, and I remember Anil Kapoor, telling me, ‘You have to let your father get back on the sets. He has spent more time on the set than he has spent at home. His home is the set and behind the camera. We are built differently, Varun. Humne bahut kaam kiya hai, so unko khushi agar usme mil rahi hai, let him do it and as a son support him.’ Anil uncle has a similar work ethic, so I understood what he said and that made me think about it a lot. Rohit was a little bit more hesitant to let him direct again, but we knew we had to support him.
Some actors come into the industry and then along the way they figure out the dynamics of this place. You’re someone who’s grown up within this machinery. Do you think you were far more prepared to embrace fame, success and failure because you’ve seen it from close quarters?
I think no one comes prepared to deal with the ups and downs in their life. I’ve had my share of ups and downs and my moments of weakness. But what I have learnt is — you have to move on and take the next step. You can dwell over it and feel bad for yourself. You can play victim, but how long will you play victim? This is something that my dad always tells me — move on, take the next step, you have to take the next step. There’s no point sitting and blaming people for your sorrows and think…ki I’m here because usne mere saath yeh kiya, ya yeh hua mere saath. Arre bhai, tumhari bhi thodi galti toh hogi na? So, introspect, take the learnings and move on. Blaming anyone is not going to get you anywhere.
In an earlier conversation with us, you had spoken about how much of our life is spent chasing perceptions — of success, relevance, being number one. But there comes a point when that chase can feel exhausting. Have you reached a stage where you’re more at peace with yourself than with how you’re perceived?
What is number one? It means you’re better than someone. There’s always going to be someone better than you. Someone will come along and something will change. My idea is to just do my work in the best way possible and enjoy the journey. There was a time when we were all being brought up in that very individualistic mindset. I myself have moved away from it a little bit. I was running too fast and sometimes when you do that, you forget which direction you are running in.
What do you think is the most dangerous thing about fame?
It’s addictive.
There’s a pressure that comes with being an actor and a star that people often overlook. What’s the part of stardom that the audience doesn’t see?
The lonely moments that you spend with yourself. When you’re all alone in your van, when you’re all alone in your house — those are the lonely moments. Actors’ lives are very lonely, and this is something which I always discuss. I would say most actors are lonely.
That’s interesting because from the outside, an actor’s life seems anything but lonely. You’re constantly surrounded by people. Is there a danger of losing yourself in the image that others have of you?
Luckily, from the beginning, I kind of dropped the façade. I am what you see. I can’t keep pretending, because I feel my mental health will go for a toss and I will burst somewhere. I mean, if you see my earlier interviews, I was even more moohfat. Abhi thoda sa conscious ho rahe hain log because of social media and all that. But kya hi hone wala hai? Kya hi kar denge? Cancel kar denge? After a point, you’ve just got to be yourself, whether it’s good or bad — at least you’re yourself. Otherwise after some time, you won’t even know who you are.
As someone who understands the economics of cinema as much as the craft, in today’s landscape, what do you think is tougher — making a film or bringing people to buy a ticket and come to the theatre?
I feel that bringing people to come and buy the ticket is tough today. You can make a good film, and many good films are being made, but not all of them make money. It’s not like we are not making good films. I saw Superboys Of Malegaon aur mujhe bahut acchi lagi. I loved Laapataa Ladies and 12th Fail; the movie was also a hit, but it could have made even more money given that it was such a good film. Then there is a film like Dhurandhar, which is an entertaining film, it has stars and everything comes together and it does well. So, it’s possible, but not easy. It was never easy.
Driven by: Jeep
Location courtesy: Luuma House
Ganapath, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan debacle effect: Tiger Shroff's Rambo shelved?
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After discouraging response to Ganapath and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, sources say Shroff’s Rambo has been shelved
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; April 26, 2024)
In 2020, when filmmaker Siddharth Anand announced Rambo with Tiger Shroff, the film seemed right up the action star’s alley. Almost four years on, he was set to begin work on the movie after the release of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. However, things seem to have changed now. With Shroff’s last few releases, including Heropanti 2 (2022) and Ganapath (2023), receiving lukewarm response at the box office, it is heard that Rambo’s makers have decided to shelve the project.
A source reveals, “Producer Siddharth and director Rohit Dhawan wanted to mount Rambo on a big budget. While Heropanti 2 and Ganapath failed to set the cash registers ringing, they decided to see the audience’s response to Bade Miyan Chote Miyan before taking a call on Rambo’s feasibility. Since the big-ticket action entertainer had an underwhelming run, Siddharth felt it would be best to park his ambitious film for now.”
Since action has been Shroff’s forte in his decade-long career, the last few movies’ lacklustre run has surprised him. Sources say that the actor might slash his fees going forward.
The source adds, “He is said to have charged somewhere upwards of Rs 30 crore for Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. The right thing for him would be to reduce his fees.”
Meanwhile, the actor has Singham Again and a Karan Johar production in the pipeline.
I’m paid three times more than the next guy who’d do the role-Ronit Roy
8:45 AM
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 26, 2023)
Actor Ronit Bose Roy’s last few projects, including Thugs Of Hindostan (2018), Shamshera (2022) and Shehzada, failed to impress the audiences or work at the box office, but the actor prefers to look at the brighter side.
“These films are allowing me to build a bridge between me and filmmakers like Rohit Dhawan and Ali Abbas Zafar,” shares Roy, confessing that Shehzada was one such movie that he did only for its director, Dhawan. Without hesitation, the actor calls these no-brainer projects “a vacation”.
The 57-year-old explains, “In some films, performance isn’t needed. There’s barely any prep; you just get in there and be true to your role. These are like a vacation where you go on set and chill. And I don’t mind it because simultaneously, I’m also getting to play lead roles in other smaller films.”
While the failure of these films often leads to fans questioning his choices, the actor says he’s aware of their disappointment, and hence, he often writes to them on social media that he has no choice but to keep working. “Wahi baat hai, ‘marta kya na karta’. You can’t even say no to projects because it’s your job, and you have to continue doing it,” the Bloody Daddy actor says, adding, “Though I’m always aware what I’m getting into, there have been times when you are promised something, and then the results are something else. Those are the times you feel underutilized also, but then you can’t do anything about it.”
Nonetheless, Roy is happy with his career trajectory because of other factors, including good money. “I’m paid three times more than the next guy who’d do the role. That means there’s respect for my name and face. People recognize me as a good actor and that matters,” he ends.
On the day of Deewana Mastana's shoot, Satish Kaushik said mazaa nahin aa raha hai-David Dhawan
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Filmmaker-friend David Dhawan recollects how the veteran made his Deewana Mastana character iconic by reworking the lines
As told to Hiren Kotwani (MID-DAY; March 10, 2023)
My friendship with Satish (Kaushik) began on the set of Swarg (1990), our first film together. Since then, I cast him in practically all my films. It became a habit. He felt a [sense of] ownership over me. If I started a film and he wasn’t starring in it, he would ask me, ‘Why isn’t my name included in this film? Are you not casting me?’
We enjoyed such a comfort level that he would call and say, ‘Tu ghar bulata nahin hai.’ I would immediately tell him, ‘Chal, aaja ghar pe.’ He would frequently visit my house. He was a very jovial person, and would crack jokes. With him, time passed by in a flash — eating and drinking together, and talking about movies.
Having written Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983) with Sudhir Mishra, he was an expert in [writing comedy]. He would write the dialogues of his characters, and narrate them to me. His dialogues inevitably took the characters a few notches higher.
Pappu Pager [in Deewana Mastana, 1997] is one of Satish’s most iconic roles. He was present in barely a few scenes, but he worked on the character, ensuring that it became memorable. I remember on the day we were to shoot his scenes in Hyderabad, he said, ‘David yaar, mazaa nahin aa raha hai.’ So, I cancelled that day’s shoot. He promised, ‘Dekh main kya karta hoon’, [and reworked the lines]. Govinda also added his own lines with Satish.
When we finally filmed those scenes in Mumbai, they created wonders together, and Pappu Pager’s scenes became among the highlights of the film. When Anil Kapoor saw the scenes, he told Satish to write his dialogues too.
Whenever Satish came on the set, I was confident that the scenes would turn out fantastic. Govinda and he would rock it every time they faced the camera together. When Rohit [Dhawan, director-son] made his debut with Desi Boyz (2011), he cast Satish for the role of Mr Dhillon. Though he had only one scene with Akshay Kumar and John Abraham, he knocked it out of the park
Later, I suggested that Rohit use Satish, even if only as the voice of Qureshi in Dishoom (2016). I knew that he was so outstanding an actor that even with his voice, he would add value to the role. Satish was underrated as an actor, and deserved a lot more.
Shehzada's title song has turned out to be one of my all time favourites-Sonu Nigam
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Debarati S Sen (BOMBAY TIMES; February 19, 2023)
Sonu Nigam has been an integral part of the music industry for the last three decades. Despite the influx of new talent in the world of music, he is on the top of everyone’s minds when it comes to pure melodies like Main Ki Karaan and Kahani (Laal Singh Chaddha) or foot-tapping numbers like the Shehzada title track. In an exclusive interview, he talks about singing for Pritam again, being active in the Indie music scene and missing his family and more. Excerpts:
You have recently worked a lot with composer Pritam. Tell us about your association with him.
There’s been a renewed association with Pritam lately and after Laal Singh Chaddha and Dunki, and I truly love it. Apparently, director Rohit Dhawan and Pritam decided to approach me for the title track of Shehzada as they needed a blend of vigour and expression conveyed with innocence in that song. And the song has turned out to be one of my all-time favourites.
You sang two melodious songs — Kahani and Main Ki Karaan — in Laal Singh Chaddha. Do you feel that they had the potential to catch on and become far more popular?
The credit for Laal Singh Chaddha goes to both Aamir (Khan) and Pritam. The movie, unfortunately, was plagued by negativity. Otherwise, the songs I sang would have reached the level of Kal Ho Naa Ho. But I always say that every piece of art comes with its own destiny. Today, Kahani and Main Ki Karaan are a staple at my concerts.
You have recently sung for an OTT release, worked on many singles and also lent your voice to spiritual songs in the last year. Professionally, how has the last year been?
The last year-and-a-half has been unbelievable in terms of quality of work. The Mission Majnu song Maati Ko Maa Kehte Hain is a beautiful track, which was released around Republic Day this year. The Indie music scene that I’ve been a part of is so diverse — be it Rangrezwa and Yaad for Jam8 or Ruk Ja for Salim Sulaiman’s Bhoomi 3, I have received so much love for them. Then there are two tracks, Hanuman Chalisa and now Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, releasing under my label. These have been very exciting times. And then there are also my regional songs and concerts!
On the work front, you seem to be on a roll.
Honestly, I am overwhelmed with the volume and quality of work. The aggressive Sonu of the 1990s and 2000s is long dead; so this new calm and satisfied version is unable to relate to all this, although I have seen all this before too. But internally, I’m thankful to the universe; after all, good work comes from good karma. It’s a blessing to have worked with so many geniuses in the last 31 years in Mumbai, who have enriched my life. God definitely loves me.
Your family is in Dubai, while your work keeps you in Mumbai and also takes you across the world for your concerts. Do you miss your family?
I miss spending time with my family in Dubai as work commitments need me to be in Mumbai and the rest of India. Sometimes, I don’t get to meet my father for weeks despite being in India, but they know that I’m fulfilling my destiny.
Besides Shah Rukh Khan's Pathaan, here's another reason why Kartik Aaryan's Shehzada release date got postponed
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Sources say Shehzada’s makers delayed release to shoot new dance number with Kartik-Kriti; hope to boost audiences’ interest in album
Hiren Kotwani (MID-DAY; February 2, 2023)
On Monday, the makers of Shehzada announced that they are deferring its release from February 10 to 17 “out of respect for Pathaan.” But it looks like the runaway success of the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer isn’t the only reason for the postponement. Sources tell us that director Rohit Dhawan is shooting a new song with leads Kartik Aaryan and Kriti Sanon.
An insider attributes the last-minute addition to the tepid response that the album has generated. “Besharam Rang and Jhoome Jo Pathaan are topping the music charts. No movie song released since January, including Shehzada’s Munda Sona Hoon Main and Chedkhaniyan, has been able to match their popularity. So, the makers decided to shoot a new promotional song that will pique audiences’ interest,” says the source. Bosco Martis is choreographing the number that is being filmed in Madh Island.
The decision to delay the film’s release also stems from the unavailability of adequate screens on February 10. A trade source says, “Exhibitors want to make the most of Pathaan’s glorious run. It remains to be seen how many screens Shehzada gets in mid-February when Pathaan will enter its fourth week.”
Bhediya was one of the first few films that I was not nervous about; I'm extremely proud of Adipurush-Kriti Sanon
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Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; January 31, 2023)
In her showbiz journey over the last nine years, Kriti Sanon has been a part of films of diverse genres. After making her debut with Heropanti in 2014, she made a mark as the quintessential Bollywood heroine in several big-ticket films. But she didn’t stop at that. She went on to pick roles that gave her a chance to push the envelope and showcase her range as an actor. In 2021, Kriti won immense appreciation for her role as a surrogate mother in Mimi and the Filmfare Award for the Best Actress, which was followed by the creature comedy Bhediya last year, a genre that hasn’t been explored in Bollywood much. In a conversation with BT, the actress talks about how she’s constantly changing gears in her career and the surprises she has up her sleeve for the audience this year. Read on...
2022 was a year of surprises and shocks for the Hindi film industry, but amidst that, there were some movies that left an impact, one of which was the creature comedy Bhediya, which won much appreciation. How confident were you to be a part of a film which was an attempt at a genre that’s rarely explored in Bollywood?
Success at any time is what we all are looking for, especially in times like these where films are struggling a bit to do what they should do or would have done in another time. So, when Bhediya got the reactions it did and performed well, it gave me a little more confidence in my own choices.
It was one of those films that I was extremely sure of when it came to content. Also, I knew we had done something unique in terms of its VFX. When you are absolutely sure of something and that doesn’t end up working then you start questioning your thought process, your choices and decisions. You start wondering if your choices are still resonating with the audience and that is a scary feeling. Bhediya was, in fact, one of the first few films that I was not nervous about. Sometimes you are aware that the part that you are playing in a film isn’t long in terms of screen time, but it is relevant and there is meat in it. I also did the film for that one twist (in the climax). I am glad Bhediya got the love it deserved.
2022 ended on a positive note for you. What’s in store this year?
The audience can probably look forward to far more versions of me. It starts with a very glamorous one which is a family entertainer, followed by probably my biggest film, Adipurush, which I am extremely proud of. Then there is a lot of action coming in with Ganapath, something I have done for the first time. You will see me ride a dirt bike, throw kicks and punches and also use a weapon. I am also doing a quirky love story with Shahid Kapoor. We are teaming up on screen for the first time, so you will see fresh chemistry. Then there is The Crew, which has three women (Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and me) coming together, having a lot of fun and creating something amazing.
After observing the pattern at the box office last year and the beginning of 2023, has your thought process on choosing films and subjects changed?
No. I don’t think we can make our future choices in retrospect. It isn’t a good way to move ahead. We can’t say... ‘Achcha this has worked, so let me do this’. Because that film has worked at that time. I believe that every film and genre have the right timing. Timing is important in terms of when the film is releasing and what the audience is craving for. I go by my gut feeling and instinct. When I hear a script, I try to see if it gets me excited as an actor, as an audience or both. I don’t want the audience to put me in a box where they say if it is a Kriti Sanon film toh aisi hi hogi. I want to give them a variety of content and characters. After Bareilly Ki Barfi, I was getting small-town roles one after the other. So, I did the war epic drama Panipat. Then I took up a strong and meaty role in Mimi and moved on to the next level. I want to shift the gear constantly and not stay in one particular zone. You have to move on and think what’s next, otherwise you will stagnate.
Today, you are in the top league, and are being offered the kind of roles that you want and deserve. But the road up to here has not been easy. When you look back, what has kept you going?
I have been here for nine years and I am glad that finally people are seeing the actor in me. Having said that, I don’t think I have reached even 50 per cent of what I can do. There is a lot more I can offer. Sometimes the opportunity you get gives you a lot to do and you shine. Sometimes it is limited in terms of what the role is or what the screenplay is. There is only so much for you to perform and do. Then there is a film like Mimi, which gives you the range and kind of scenes where you can go all out and shine. So, it is a matter of getting the right opportunity at the right time. I am just glad that people are seeing me in different zones. I am glad Om Raut saw me as Janaki for Adipurush, Vikas Bahl saw me kicking ass as Jassi in Ganapath, Rohit Dhawan saw me as this glamorous urban girl for my upcoming film, Shehzada. I feel excited and blessed in this phase, which probably is the best of my career. It took a lot of consistency, passion, hard work and belief in myself to get here. It is only when you believe in yourself that someone else will believe in you. I’m happy with where I am today, but I still feel that I am not even close to exploring half of my potential. I want to do more. So, you just believe in yourself and hold on closely to the people who are with you when you are not doing well! I think that is very important, too.
It’s the first time that I’m doing action, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience-Kartik Aaryan
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Trading his rom-com hero image to explore action with Shehzada, Kartik says he is keen to dive deeper into the genre
Hiren Kotwani (MID-DAY; November 25, 2022)
Action films had so far eluded Kartik Aaryan, who primarily built his career on romantic comedies. But now that he has had a taste of the genre, it’s easy to see that the actor is relishing it. The teaser of Shehzada, which was released on Aaryan’s birthday earlier this week, sees the actor fight baddies single-handedly, complete with the swagger of a Hindi masala film hero.
“It’s the first time that I’m doing action, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience,” he said, during an informal chat on his big day.
It can’t be easy to make an official adaptation of Telugu hit Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020), considering the Allu Arjun-starrer has a massive fan following. But Aaryan says director Rohit Dhawan has brought his own vision. “Rohit has made the film in his own style, and given it a universal flavour. I have [brought my interpretation] to the character, so that we can take the film to a larger audience.”
The actor is now eager to dive deeper into the action genre. “As an artiste, I’d love to explore different roles and genres; that includes action as well. Hopefully, there will be more opportunities in the future,” says Aaryan, who has Freddy, and Satyaprem Ki Katha in the pipeline.
Shehzada production designer builds a mansion set costing Rs 5 crore for the Kartik Aaryan starrer
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Upping the ante from its Telugu original, Shehzada production designer decodes how he built a set of a mansion costing approx Rs 5 crore for the Kartik-Kriti starrer
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; June 24, 2022)
After the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Kartik Aaryan is busy giving shape to his next, Shehzada. Last week, the actor and leading lady Kriti Sanon wrapped up a 20-day schedule of the Rohit Dhawan-directed venture — which is an adaptation of the Allu Arjun-fronted Telugu hit, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020) — at Film City. Sources say that for the stint, production designer Suresh Selvarajan had created a sound-and-dust-proof set of a mansion that apparently cost the producers a cool Rs 5 crore. While the Telugu original was shot partly at a lavish set of a mansion, producers Allu Aravind and Dhawan wanted to up the ante with the Hindi adaptation.
A large chunk of the drama plays out in the mansion, as Aaryan’s character makes his way into a wealthy businessman’s home and wins over his family, while not revealing to him that he is his biological son.
A source from the unit reveals, “The schedule kicked off in the first week of June. For this leg, Rohit had lined up dramatic and confrontational scenes to be shot at the mansion. The production design team worked on the set for two months, building a palatial property. The makers were clear that the set-up had to be grander than the one shown in Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo. The set has white exterior with the interiors done in warm tones, boasting over 50 rooms, spacious gardens and chandeliers.”
For Selvarajan, who created spectacular sets for Om Shanti Om (2007), Petta (2019) and the upcoming Godfather, designing the mansion with complete creative freedom was a source of joy. “Now that the shoot is over, the set has been dismantled. After seeing the grand set, the producers told me that they feel bad about dismantling it as two more films could have been shot there. Allu Aravind ji expressed the desire of making [a similar set-up] in his studio in the south. The affluence had to reflect in each frame.”
Selvarajan adds that the set-up cost approximately five crore rupees. “I follow the director’s vision. After hearing the script, I try to understand how I can [enhance his vision]. Rohit showed me the Telugu film to give me an idea of the mansion. He then asked me how we could make it more beautiful for the Bollywood offering. We came up with several models and miniatures, and finalised on one.”
The exterior shots of Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo were filmed at a bungalow in Hyderabad, while a special set was created for the indoor sequences of the Allu Arjun starrer
Kartik Aaryan and I have a great give and take and are always in sync-Kriti Sanon
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Kriti Sanon on reuniting with Luka Chuppi co-star Kartik Aaryan for Shehzada
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; May 29, 2022)
The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their social media banter is a proof of that. After their 2019 comedy Luka Chuppi, Kriti Sanon and Kartik Aaryan are reuniting for Rohit Dhawan’s directorial venture, Shehzada. Billed as an action-packed musical and family entertainer, Shehzada is the Hindi remake of the 2020 hit Telugu film, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, which originally featured Allu Arjun.
Having worked with Aaryan before, the actor believes that she knows her co-star in and out. “I know him well. We are good friends. As co-actors, we have a great give and take and are always in sync. [While] we have great on-screen chemistry, I feel it gets better with every scene.”
The duo has already wrapped up a song in Mauritius and will continue shooting till the month of June. “I am hoping to wrap up both Ganapath and Shehzada by mid-June,” says Sanon, adding that she is currently enjoying the vibe on set. “It has been fun collaborating with Rohit and the team. There is a lot of young energy on sets.”
Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt to host their first bash as a married couple on April 16?
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Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; April 11, 2022)
While there has been buzz bachelor’s party would be hosted a few days before his wedding with Alia Bhatt, that plan has apparently changed. Now, the couple will host a bash on April 16 where they will raise a toast to their marriage with their closest pals after they tie the knot late in the night on April 15. This is expected to be the first bash that they will host for around 50 of their closest friends before their wedding reception in the following week. Like the wedding, this too will be an intimate affair.
The venue for the said bash has not been revealed to the guests yet. Actors including Arjun Kapoor, Varun Dhawan and Aditya Roy Kapur and filmmaker Rohit Dhawan are expected to be among the guests at the party. In the meantime, the decoration work continues at bride Alia’s house, situated in the same building as Ranbir’s. The groom has booked the banquet hall in their residential complex for intimate, pre and post-wedding festivities, which are likely to begin early next week.
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The lovebirds to have an unplugged wedding on Thursday, with 50 guests in attendance
Vinay MR Mishra (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 11, 2022)
Conjectures are rife vis-à-vis actor-couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt’s wedding. We have learnt that they will tie the knot on April 14. The baraat procession will start for the venue, Kapoor’s pad at Vastu, Bandra in Mumbai, around 3 pm and the nuptials will last till evening. The mehendi and haldi ceremonies will take place on April 13 and 14, respectively.
“It’s likely to be held on the seventh floor. It will be an intimate affair, with only 50 people in attendance, including their family and close friends like filmmaker Karan Johar and director Ayan Mukerji,” a source confirms. Only the guests and photographers will have access to the floor (without phones).
We have also learnt that Bhatt will wear a pink Sabyasachi lehenga for the wedding along with a dupatta made by close friend, designer Manish Malhotra. While the theme for the wedding will be pastel, the menu will have all shades — from chaat to Kashmiri varieties. The couple will throw a party for friends on April 16. “It will have almost 80 to 100 guests,” the source adds.
Contrary to reports, no wedding planner has been brought on board and Bhatt’s manager, Grishma Shah, is managing all the functions. Currently, both Kapoor and Bhatt are at Vastu, holding all the meetings. They haven’t stepped out of the house for four days, an onlooker present in the vicinity tells us.
Kartik Aaryan blocks the next six months for Shehzada
8:12 AM
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; November 3, 2021)
There is little rest for Kartik Aaryan. Even as he gears up for the release of Dhamaka, the actor has dived into the shoot of Shehzada, which is an official adaptation of Allu Arjun’s Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020). “Huge sets have been built at Film City in Goregaon for the shoot. Director Rohit Dhawan is mounting the remake of the Telugu hit on a grand canvas,” says a source.
It is heard that Aaryan has blocked the next six months for the action drama. The source reveals, “Kartik will sport a different look in the film. The Mumbai set is being closely guarded to prevent any leaks. The makers have also requested Kartik to not put out any pictures on social media. Rohit wanted to shoot the film on a start-to-finish schedule. The actor has complete faith in the project and was more than willing to dedicate the next six months to it. After an extensive schedule in the city, Rohit and his team will head to Delhi.”
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo revolves around a young man eager for validation from his father, who in turn criticises and neglects him. The protagonist later learns that he was switched at birth, and that his biological father is an affluent businessman. The Hindi adaptation features Kriti Sanon as the leading lady.
Robert De Niro had messaged me when he learned about Kirron’s health-Anupam Kher
7:46 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; May 22, 2021)
In this second wave, we’ve seen quite a few celebrities lending support to various initiatives. You have joined forces too...
When I looked around during the second wave, I thought either one could get angry and frustrated and feel helpless, or do something to help. In the bid to do something constructive, my friends and I collaborated and created a bridge between those in need and their requirements — equipment, medicines, and so on. Everyone has faced this pandemic in some way - I lost a close friend of many years, Sujata, to it. She had battled kidney failure years ago. She had recently had a transplant and had begun to live freely again, but things were not meant to be. My family was infected last year. This lockdown has also led to many mental health issues, which we will realise when we get to the other side. We have a project in place for that, too. We have a panel of professionals and a team of volunteers who can help. Once people are through with the physical damages, we will have to assess the mental damages of this pandemic.
How is your wife, Kirron Kher, holding up in her battle with cancer?
Kirron’s health is improving. It’s a tough treatment. She often says that the lockdown and COVID situation have made things difficult. Patients going through this treatment need something to distract themselves. She can’t go out or meet people, but the good part is that Kirron is on her way to better health. She is holding up fine. There are days when she is positive and then there are days when the chemotherapy impacts her state in many ways. We are all trying our best and she is doing it, too. The doctors do their job, but you have to keep your mental state strong to get past such a difficult treatment. She’s making every effort towards that, and so are we.
Last year once the lockdown eased, you were in the US shooting for your American series New Amsterdam. But you opted out of it to be able to look after your family here. That must have been a difficult decision to take.
Acting is a part of my life, it’s not my life. And at all times, we have to be ready to lose something to gain something. Quitting the American show was a difficult decision — career-wise, financially and otherwise. But my family and my wife Kirron needed me more. It’s not like I won’t get work here. If you stay away for two or more years, duniya aage nikal jaati hai. Mushkil ho sakta hai, namumkin to nahi hoga na? I have already got films like The Kashmir Files, Rohit Dhawan’s next, Sooraj Barjatya’s next and Nautanki in my kitty, and I have already shot for two. If needed, I will ring up my friends and ask for work… ki bhai ghar chalta rahe. Life is all about making decisions and difficult decisions on most occasions. That is how you discover yourself as a person.
Have you been in touch with your American colleagues and your friend, Robert De Niro?
Yes, I have been in touch. Robert had messaged me when he learned about Kirron’s health. He had also sent me a video to wish me on my birthday, and he keeps checking on Kirron’s health every few days. I had texted him after seeing his ad with Roger Federer, and in response, all he wanted to know was my family’s well-being and how Kirron was doing.
The last year has been tough on you — you lost a very close friend from the industry —Rishi Kapoor — your family members, including your mother, tested positive for COVID-19, and now, Kirron’s health issues are your primary concern. How do you stay positive and take others along with you in such challenging times?
I had read a beautiful line, ‘Everything is okay at the end, if it is not okay, it’s not the end’. As optimistic and positive as you may be, things do affect you, but hope is the heart of life. You may go through difficult situations, but if you stop being hopeful, you can’t live. It’s meaningless. It’s hope that takes you through everything. People have lost friends, loved ones, young ones... You have to find the zest for life and find hope to go on, no matter what. Giving up is not an option, ever. I am not an escapist. Yes, there are days when I am low. You can either be devastated or believe that there will be another tomorrow. Draw strength from nature... it does not change its course come what may. Motivation stems from there, which can help you surpass tragedies.
You have penned books on your life experiences, any plans to write something about this experience — once we get to the other side of the pandemic?
There is a germ of a thought... nothing concrete. It will be about motivation, encouragement and life.
Tiger Shroff’s Rambo remake back on track with new director
8:36 AM
Rohit Dhawan replaces Siddharth Anand; Hindi adaptation of Sly’s Rambo to roll by end of 2021
Humesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 27, 2020)
Over the years, Tiger Shroff has grown into a bankable action star, spearheading franchises like Baaghi and Heropanti. Since the release of Baaghi in 2016, there’s been talk of the actor collaborating with Siddharth Anand on the official adaptation of Sylvester Stallone’s Hollywood cult franchise, Rambo. Speaking to Mirror (May 17, 2019), Siddharth had confirmed the same, saying he is collaborating with the actor again after War and the Rambo adaptation would roll in January 2020. However, since then, a lot has changed. Siddharth got busy scripting a film with Shah Rukh Khan, while Tiger is taking forward his debut film, Heropanti, with mentor Sajid Nadiadwala and director Ahmed Khan.
Now, Mirror has learnt that the Rambo remake is back on track but with a different director. “Rambo is Tiger’s baby and he is kicked about stepping into his idol Stallone’s shoes. After being put on the backburner for a while, the project is being revived with Rohit Dhawan as director,” revealed a source close to the development.
Rohit has already started working on the script, but there is still time before the film goes on the floors as he is committed to the Hindi remake of the Allu Arjun starrer, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, with Kartik Aaryan. “Rohit has already locked the script of his next commercial entertainer with Kartik and is expected to kickstart it around February. With some free time in his hand, the director has started work on the Rambo remake with his team of writers,” the source informed, adding that Rambo will begin only after the release of the Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo remake, towards the end of 2021.
It is being planned as a multi-film franchise and the action will be mounted on a never-seen-before scale. “Tiger was presented like Rambo in the Baaghi franchise too, and the idea here is to show him as an intense and brutal fighter. Siddharth and Rohit are good friends and the former has shared the blueprint of his vision with the latter and will be involved in the film’s creative development and credited for it too,” shared the source, adding that Tiger, too, is hoping to wrap up two films, including Heropanti 2 which should begin sometime next year. He’s also in talks for an original, non-franchise action film with a director who delivered a hit last year, but hasn’t signed the film yet.
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo remake to star Kartik Aaryan?
6:03 PM
Hindi remake of Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, that will be headlined by Kartik Aaryan, to go on floors in February, say sources
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; July 27, 2020)
Towards the close of last week, Kartik Aaryan apparently signed on the dotted line and gave his nod to the Hindi remake of Allu Arjun's Telugu action-drama, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo. The film that released earlier in the year, went on to break records, and a discussion about a Hindi remake soon began to gather steam.Rohit Dhawan will be taking over duties from director Trivikram Srinivas for the remake that will be produced by original producers Allu Aravind and S Radha Krishna.
A trade source says, "Before the lockdown, Kartik had been approached for the role of Bantu, which was played by Allu. The role is apt for Kartik, who is also a good dancer. The deal was apparently finalised on Thursday, and Kartik will film for it after he wraps up Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Dostana 2. The movie will roll in early 2021."
The makers, says the source, couldn't think about anyone other than Aaryan to play the tough, intelligent, and smart-talking Bantu, whose life is juxtaposed with that of Raj, a vulnerable, quiet and soft-spoken man. "The makers are scouting for an established actor, like Aparshakti Khurrana or Angad Bedi, to play Raj's role. Paresh Rawal is in contention for the role of Bantu's father. News of Kartik's entry is being kept under wraps as the makers want to announce the remake in September."
mid-day reached out to Aaryan and Dhawan, who didn't respond till the time of going to press.
John Abraham to play gangster-turned-cabbie in Vedalam remake
8:32 AM
Rohit Dhawan’s next, a remake of Ajith’s Tamil blockbuster Vedalam, is a multi-layered role for John Abraham
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; February 5, 2020)
After collaborating on Satyameva Jayate and Batla House, John Abraham and Bhushan Kumar took the gangster-drama, Mumbai Saga, on the floors in August last year. In April and July respectively, they will kick off Satyameva Jayate 2 and Ek Villain 2. Now, Mirror has learnt that the duo is also collaborating on the official remake of the 2015 Tamil blockbuster, Vedalam, which will be directed by Rohit Dhawan.According to a source close to the development, Rohit is putting finishing touches to the screenplay, adapting the film, which is set in Mumbai, for a pan-India audience. “The team will go on recce in a couple of months. The idea is to shoot in real locations to capture the local flavour. A small portion will be canned outside the city as well,” informs the source.
The original featured Ajith as the protagonist, Ganesh, a gangster-turned-taxi driver and a doting brother to Lakshmi Menon’s Thamizh. Shruti Hassan, the second female lead, was a lawyer, while Rahul Dev, Kabir Duhan Singh and Aniket Chouhan were the antagonists. “The two actresses are integral to the narrative and the makers are looking to cast strong performers for both parts,” the source says, adding that Bhushan loved the original film and took it to John, who has liked it as much. “They are excited about the remake as it’s different from all their previous collaborations,” the source shares.John, who plays a gangster in Mumbai Saga, will be seen reprising his role of a vigilante cop in Satyameva Jayate sequel, before he gets into the grey zone of Ek Villain 2. In the Vedalam remake, the leading man sports three different looks, transforming from a dreaded gangster into a subdued cabbie and later, a protective sibling. “It’s a multi-layered character, with a terrific climax which makes the film interesting,” the source signs off.
Rohit and John have previously worked together in the former’s directorial debut, Desi Boyz, which co-starred Akshay Kumar, and the buddy cop actioner Dishoom, also featuring Varun Dhawan.
Varun Dhawan reunites with brother Rohit for a sequel to Dishoom
8:02 AM
Three years after their first film together, the Dhawan duo are teaming up again for its sequel
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 24, 2019)
In 2016, Varun Dhawan teamed up with brother Rohit Dhawan on the latter’s second directorial, the Sajid Nadiadwala-produced Dishoom, an action-comedy also featuring John Abraham and Jacqueline Fernandez. In the film, the leading men played cops entrusted with the task of finding a star cricketer of the Indian team who is kidnapped 48 hours before a match in the UAE.Now, Mirror has learnt that a sequel to the movie is in the works and is expected to go on the floors sometime next year. According to a source close to the development, Rohit recently locked the first draft of the story. “He has been working on multiple ideas for his next directorial for a while now. One of them was a plot that had the potential of taking the buddy-cop franchise forward. He recently narrated the first draft to Varun and Sajid, both of whom have green-lit the project,” informs our source.
While the first part revolved around getting a cricketer to the field, the sequel will follow the espionage film template, with Varun’s character, Junaid, on a mission to track a threat. “The film will be shot in India and abroad, and Rohit will go on a recce with his team early next year as he intends to take the film on the floors towards the second half of 2020,” the source added. This would mark the fifth home-grown franchise for Nadiadwala after Judwaa, Housefull, Baaghi and Kick. The source shares that the filmmaker is looking to start Kick 2 and Dishoom 2 next year around the same time.Before moving on to the Dishoom sequel, Varun will finish shooting for Shashank Khaitan’s Mr Lele, a commercial entertainer featuring Kiara Advani and Bhumi Pednekar, which goes on floors in March. The actor also has Sriram Raghavan’s biopic on the 1971 Indo-Pak war hero, Arun Khetarpal.
I want to explore more territories-Ayushmann Khurrana
8:18 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; September 11, 2019)
Ayushmann Khurrana is on a roll with five back-to-back hits in the last three years. Recently, he added another feather to his cap by bagging the National Award for his performance in AndhaDhun. To celebrate and take a break from work, the actor went on a week-long holiday abroad with his wife Tahira Kashyap Khurrana and children — Virajvir and Varushka. “Going to Australia with my family was the best detox — It was good fun,” says the 34-year-old, who is now back to the grind, promoting his next, Dream Girl. Here, he talks about his upcoming films and being hailed as the poster boy for quirky, content-driven movies.
You’re on a professional high and this year has been great for you...
Yes, I have a feeling of gratitude. It’s a thin line that I’m treading between contentment and ambition right now. I’m feeling happy and simultaneously, there’s this need to do more. You’re rewarded, awarded, getting good scripts, the buzz is good for the next film. and you still want to explore more territories. I am in that phase.
What appealed to you about Dream Girl?
It was unique in a way because it’s going back to the roots. Traditionally, in Ram Leela and all these folklore, plays or theatre, most of the actors who play female characters are males. This is the story about that guy. And for some reason, his father is not that proud of the fact that he’s playing a girl in Ram Leela. But, he is gifted — he can talk in two voices, both male and female — he utilises this talent of his and joins a call centre. Some men fall in love with him, and it is about how he deals with the situation. Not only is it unique, but also quirky at the same time.
Have you done such voice modulation in your theatre days?
No, but I’ve done something like this in my radio days, because, of course, it’s voice-driven. And I did some prank calls, too. Also, I remember when I was 14 or 15, I was dating my first girlfriend and whenever her dad used to pick up the phone, I would talk like a girl and ask for her (laughs). I’ve done that in the past because that time one’s going on the cusp of childhood and puberty.
How easy or difficult was it for you to make the transition to a female voice now?
It was fine, but it’s just that because our film was in sync-sound, the transition from the male to female voice was not that smooth. So, I went to the studio gave 40-odd takes and then hit the right note.
What’s the best feedback that you’ve got for the film’s trailer?
I got a message from Rohit Dhawan (filmmaker); he loved the trailer. This film, of course, is a tribute to the ’90s David Dhawan kind of comedy where there is more elbow room for an actor to perform. Not only audiences but I also got feedback from industry insiders, trade people, who normally send me congratulatory texts only after the film becomes a hit or something. On the basis of a trailer, I had got messages from them earlier for Badhaai Ho and now for Dream Girl.
The ’90s era is known for its masala entertainer and loud comedies...
Yes, and this film is my most masala, commercial outing. I’ve not played with subtleties at all. I have gone all out and played on the front foot as far as the acting or portrayal of the character is concerned. It goes slapstick also in between. That’s the tonality of our film.
Since you started with Vicky Donor, did that set the ground for you to attract offbeat scripts?
It did. I think every actor has one staple, one zone. Mine is quirky slice-of-life films. And, I’m really happy in this zone because they always offer something unique. At the same time, themes that have not been tested before in Indian cinema are explored. So, it gives you a lot of scope for people to get excited for the subject of the film. It started with my first film and went forward with Dum Laga Ke Haisha.
In between, you did films like Bewakoofiyaan and Hawaizaada, which were formulaic and didn’t do well...
That was because, I was not getting those kind of scripts. Immediately after Vicky Donor, I was struggling to get the right kind of script because it set such a benchmark. And then, there was actually no quirky subject that I was offered. They were not getting made after Vicky Donor. So, for two-three years, I had no choice. I was doing what I was getting. There was a learning curve also at the same time.
Now every actor wants to be associated with content-driven cinema. When did that transition begin?
I guess now it is happening because there’s solid competition from digital medium, from the OTT platforms. If you don’t have something unique to offer, the audience will think twice before spending money for the tickets because they can obviously see a lot of amazing stuff happening on the web. The trend began three-four years back, and everybody’s driven towards getting attracted to content-based cinema. But I guess it started with Vicky Donor because a subject like sperm donation was seen by family audience. That was kind of a case study.
So, you are the poster boy of quirky content-driven cinema?
You can say that. I’m proud to be a part of that wave.
Going ahead, you have movies like Bala and Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, which deal with bold subjects...
Next up is Bala, which is based on a guy suffering from receding hairline. In a country like India, I’ve explored far-fetched topics like sperm donation and erectile dysfunction (Shubh Mangal Saavdhan), but receding hairline is the most common among males. Fifty per cent of men after the age of 30 suffer from hair reduction, even women for that matter. So, we’ve explored that. Again, that’s quirky, motivational and a lot of fun. Then comes Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan where I play a homosexual. This is the first mainstream film with homosexuality in its forefront. We’re not shying away from anything on that front. After that there is Gulabo Sitabo. It is a slice-of-life film, but there is no one liner I can tell you about it. In the movie both me and Bachchan Saab are at loggerheads.
Were you intimidated when you had to interact with Amitabh Bachchan the first time during the shoot?
I had met him socially but on the sets, it was very different. He comes really prepared with everything. He knows your lines also. He’s an institution, he’s a living legend. Thankfully, he is that co-actor who’s very collaborative. So, the butterflies were gone when I met him on the set.
In Article 15, one saw you in a completely different avatar. Are you considering any more such outings or playing a dark character?
I would love to, but I have films like Gulabo Sitabo and Shubh Mangal Zyaada Saavdhan coming out next year. Right now, I am taking it easy and waiting for the right script.
DNA Exclusive: I’m 33 and in no hurry to get married-Arjun Kapoor
7:57 AM
Meena Iyer (DNA; April 25, 2019)
For months on end, speculations have been rife about Arjun Kapoor’s marriage to Malaika Arora. Tentative dates, suggested dress codes, destinations and ceremonial details were tossed around. Frankly, even we at After Hrs, did buy into some of this. However, since neither the ‘groom’ nor the ‘bride’ were willing to address the question directly, it became nearly impossible to call out the bluff.
Finally, we managed to meet Arjun (quite by chance) and before he could retreat into his shell, we asked him:
Are you getting married in June?
No, I am not. I’m 33 and you have to take my word when I say, I’m in no hurry to get married.
What about the constant speculation surrounding your nuptials?
You tell me! The subject of my wedding is not something that I would like to talk about. Frankly, if I was tying the knot, people would know about it. Today, nothing stays or needs to be hidden beyond a point.
So, you are okay with this constant speculation?
Speculation is harmless. But I admit, I don’t like to respond to it all the time. Also, it gets tiring for the people involved to constantly react. There has been so much gossip on this subject that even the people who earlier tended to believe it are no longer doing so. I don’t have anything against anyone.
Are you tired of prying eyes?
No. The media and the paparazzi are doing their job. The people reading the ‘gossip’ are doing their job. They are forming an opinion based on what they are reading. No one is to blame. However, I have to do my actual job.
Which is?
(Laughs) I have to be an actor first. Honestly, through all this, the only constant has been that I have been shooting for Panipat. I have been at work every day and I am shooting continuously until May 31, except perhaps for a few days, when I will be promoting, India’s Most Wanted.
It has been a season of weddings in Bollywood for a while...
I know it is the marriage season. But marriage is a big commitment. I will do it when I am ready.
Do you admit Malaika Arora is special?
Yes, she is.
Nothing more on her?
I don’t have anything to discuss. I have nothing to hide. What the world is seeing, they are seeing. However, I have no desire to justify my personal life beyond a point. It is important to have good people around me and I feel fortunate that I have such individuals in my life.
You hang out a lot with Malaika, Kareena (Kapoor Khan), etc?
Malaika, Kareena, Amrita (Ladak) and a bunch of us have always been close. I have hung out with them for years on end. It is not in the recent past.
Who are the others you are close to?
Rohit (Dhawan), Varun’s older brother and Ranbir (Kapoor) are also close friends. In fact, I hang out with Rohit and Varun. Aarti (Shetty) is also a dear friend. I don’t have too many friends who are my age or younger than me. I’ve always been a mature soul who bonds better with those who are older.
DNA Exclusive: Coolie No 1 remake first look to be out on Varun Dhawan's birthday?
11:04 PM
Harshada Rege (DNA; April 5, 2019)
Varun Dhawan has had an enviable track record at the box office. The Gen-Y star has proved his might at the ticket windows and has also championed cinema that doesn’t fall in the run-of-the-mill category. His two professional associations with his father — Main Tera Hero (2014) and Judwaa 2 (2017) – and one with brother Rohit — Dishoom (2016), proved that the trio knew the pulse of the audience. They decided to adapt Coolie No 1 (1995) as the first production under their home banner. And on April 24, which is Varun’s birthday, apparently, the first poster of the movie will be unveiled.
Says a source, “The shoot has already taken place and Varun’s birthday seemed liked a great occasion to show the audience what’s in store for them.” In the interim, the October actor is busy promoting Kalank, the epic saga that sees him sharing screen space with his Student Of The Year and Dulhania series co-star Alia Bhatt.
NEW JODI TO WATCH OUT FOR
While Alia and Varun have made a great pair on screen, the latter will be seen opposite Sara Ali Khan in the Coolie No 1 adaptation. The source adds, “Both, Varun and Sara, have a huge fan following. They are talented actors and this would be a jodi that the audience will want to see in a film.” While the Badlapur actor will play the part that was essayed by Govinda in the original, the Simmba actress will step into Karisma Kapoor’s shoes.
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